Khajuraho is a famous town in Madhya Pradesh, India, known for its stunning group of ancient temples. These temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract visitors from across the country and the world. Located in the Chhatarpur district, Khajuraho lies roughly midway between Jhansi and Jabalpur.

This route is popular among tourists and pilgrims who want to explore the rich history and architecture of the temples. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Khajuraho, including train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips for a comfortable journey.

Getting from Major Cities to Khajuraho – Main Options

Train

Train travel to Khajuraho is a convenient and affordable option, especially from nearby cities like Jhansi and Satna. The Khajuraho railway station connects to major Indian Railways routes, making it popular among tourists.

• Khajuraho railway station is well connected to Jhansi, Satna, and Katni, with direct trains from Delhi, Agra, and Varanasi, covering distances of 600-700 km in about 10-14 hours.

• Train fares range from INR 200 to INR 800 depending on class, with sleeper and AC options available, providing comfort for overnight journeys.

• Trains run daily but can be crowded during festivals like Diwali and Holi, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Khajuraho station is small but clean, with basic waiting areas and auto-rickshaw stands for last-mile connectivity to hotels and temples.

• During monsoon, some trains may face minor delays due to track maintenance, so check live train status before departure.

Bus

Buses to Khajuraho are frequent from nearby cities and are a budget-friendly option. State-run and private buses operate on this route, offering various comfort levels.

• Madhya Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (MPSRTC) runs regular buses from Jhansi, Satna, and Chhatarpur to Khajuraho, with journey times between 3 to 6 hours depending on distance.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 100 to INR 400, with non-AC and AC deluxe buses available; night buses are less common on this route.

• Major bus depots include Jhansi Bus Stand and Satna Bus Stand, where you can book tickets in advance or on the spot, but early booking is advised during peak tourist seasons.

• Road conditions on NH39 and NH39B are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery roads, so plan accordingly.

• Rest stops along the highway offer basic food stalls and clean washrooms, but carrying bottled water and snacks is recommended for comfort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Khajuraho offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. The roads are well maintained and scenic.

• Khajuraho is accessible via National Highway NH39, connecting it to Jhansi (about 175 km) and Satna (about 120 km), with a typical drive time of 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Toll plazas are present on the route, with toll charges ranging from INR 50 to INR 150, so keep cash handy for smooth passage.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Jhansi, Satna, and Khajuraho itself, with daily rates from INR 1500 to INR 3000 depending on vehicle type.

• Driving during early morning hours is recommended to avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially in summer months.

• Fuel stations are available along the highway, but it is advisable to fill up before starting the journey as some stretches have fewer pumps.

Flight

Khajuraho has a domestic airport that connects it to major cities like Delhi and Varanasi, making air travel the fastest option for distant travelers.

• Khajuraho Airport (IATA: HJR) is located about 3 km from the town center, with regular flights operated by airlines such as IndiGo and Air India.

• Flight duration from Delhi to Khajuraho is approximately 1.5 hours, with fares ranging from INR 2500 to INR 6000 depending on booking time and season.

• Advance booking is essential during peak tourist seasons like winter and festival periods to secure seats and better prices.

• From the airport, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for quick transfers to hotels and temple complexes.

• Flight schedules may be limited on weekends and public holidays, so check the latest timings before planning your trip.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time visitors to Khajuraho to help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or flight tickets well in advance via IRCTC or airline websites to ensure availability, especially during festival seasons when demand is high.

• If traveling by bus, arrive early at the bus depot to secure a seat, as buses can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.

• Pack light but carry essentials like bottled water, snacks, and a power bank, since some transport options may have limited stops or charging facilities.

• On arrival at Khajuraho railway station or airport, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and avoid overcharging.

• Plan your temple visits during early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds, and carry sunscreen and hats for sun protection.

• Keep a printed or digital copy of your booking confirmations and ID proofs handy for smooth check-ins and ticket verification during travel.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Khajuraho to avoid bargaining and ensure fair pricing for local travel.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water and eat at clean, popular eateries to avoid stomach issues common among travelers in smaller towns.

• Book train and flight tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance during peak seasons to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Carry a small first-aid kit with basic medicines for headaches, motion sickness, and minor cuts, as pharmacies may not be immediately accessible during travel.

• During monsoon, check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your journey, as heavy rains can cause delays and slippery roads.

• Pack light clothes suitable for warm days and cooler nights, and bring comfortable walking shoes for temple visits and local sightseeing.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Khajuraho is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.

Festival periods like the Khajuraho Dance Festival in February attract many tourists, so expect crowded transport and higher prices during this time.

• Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of April to June due to extreme heat, which can make daytime travel uncomfortable.

• Monsoon season from July to September may cause road closures or train delays, so plan accordingly and check local weather updates.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially when driving or taking buses.

• Festival times, especially the Khajuraho Dance Festival, see increased tourist inflow, so book accommodation and transport well in advance.

Arrival at Khajuraho & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Khajuraho railway station or airport, you will find several options for local transport. Auto-rickshaws, prepaid taxis, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are readily available to take you to your hotel or the temple complex.

Most hotels and guesthouses are located within 2-3 km of the main temple area, making it easy to explore on foot or by short rides. The town is small and walkable, but using local transport is convenient for carrying luggage or visiting nearby attractions.

Conclusion

Traveling to Khajuraho is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train and flight options are most efficient for long-distance travelers, while buses and self-drive cars offer flexibility for regional visitors.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, choosing the right travel time, and understanding local transport will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Khajuraho and focus on experiencing its remarkable heritage and culture.